I originally wrote this on 9/12/2003, but I think it might be a good thought to come back to.
"Have you noticed … ?" 1 Kings 21:29
God is talking here to the prophet Elijah. "Have you noticed … ?" He asks.
I just finished taking an hour walk in the rain. I was walking through a nature preserve and, predictably, it was deserted. Who would be crazy enough to be out in a rainstorm? But there I was, walking along, getting soaked, not much minding because my heart was full of wonder, noticing things.
I was watching the life-giving rain fall on the remnants of flowers, now brown with age. And I was thinking about how they would never be restored until the last of winter is over, and spring is born.
It seems sad, in a way, that we age — that the strength and beauty of youth fades and falls away. But every year we grow richer, our lives filled with memories, experiences, worship. Some grow more beautiful as they age, like the autumn maple tree. Some just seem like a shell, brown and empty.
I sense that all of this is precious to God — that none of this escapes His notice. And like a mother holding out her arms to receive her baby’s first step, so also God holds out His arms to receive us into eternity.
Have you noticed … ?
Be encouraged!
Dwight
Dwight Clough is the author of four Christian books and is an active member of Lake City Church in Madison. This devotional is also available via email and you may review the archives back to 2002. Dwight and his wife Kim provide prayer ministry for inner healing / transformation and coaching in prayer ministry. He is available to speak to your group or church. To contact Dwight or Kim, use their contact form. You may also support their ministry.